This entry represents the beta-barrel found at the C-terminal of S-layer protein SlpA and similar S-layer proteins. SlpA plays an important role in the structural organisation and integrity of the S-layer [1,2]. In Deinococcus radiodurans, SlpA binds the carotenoid deinoxanthin, a strong protective antioxidant specific of this bacterium suggested to be part of the first lane of defense against UV radiation, especially under desiccation [2].

1: Purification and characterization of DR_2577 (SlpA) a major S-layer protein from Deinococcus radiodurans. Farci D, Bowler MW, Esposito F, McSweeney S, Tramontano E, Piano D; Front Microbiol. 2015;6:414. PMID:26074883

2: The S-layer Protein DR_2577 Binds Deinoxanthin and under Desiccation Conditions Protects against UV-Radiation in Deinococcus radiodurans. Farci D, Slavov C, Tramontano E, Piano D; Front Microbiol. 2016;7:155. PMID:26909071